Following their previous blockbuster trade, the Chicago Bears have executed another major deal, this time involving a quarterback.

According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport’s report on Saturday, citing sources, the Pittsburgh Steelers are acquiring quarterback Justin Fields from the Bears via trade.

In exchange for Fields, Rapoport added that the Bears will receive a 2025 conditional sixth-round pick from the Steelers, which could potentially become a 2025 fourth-round selection. The teams have since confirmed the trade, pending Fields passing a physical examination.

“We have engaged in multiple trade conversations in recent weeks and believe trading Justin at this time to Pittsburgh is what is best for both Justin and the Bears,” Chicago general manager Ryan Poles said in a team statement. “Today we spoke to Justin to inform him of the trade and the rationale behind it for us as a Club. We want to thank him for his tireless dedication, leadership and all he poured into our franchise and community the last three years and wish him the best towards a long and successful NFL career.”

At 25 years old, Fields posted career-best numbers in passing yards (2,562), touchdowns (16), and completion percentage (61.4%) during his 13 starts in the 2023 season. The dynamic quarterback also contributed 657 yards and four touchdowns on the ground during his third campaign in the Windy City.

Since being selected 11th overall in the 2021 draft, Fields has accumulated a 10-28 record as a starting quarterback. He departs Chicago having thrown for 6,674 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions, while adding 2,220 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground.

With Fields moving on to his next chapter, most indications suggest that Caleb Williams is the frontrunner to be selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft in April.

Chicago’s offseason additions, including D’Andre Swift, Keenan Allen, and Gerald Everett, will benefit whoever is under center for the Bears in 2024. The team has also added a new offensive coordinator in Shane Waldron, who spent the last three seasons in the same role with the Seattle Seahawks.

As for the Steelers, they have already made multiple significant moves at the quarterback position this offseason. Head coach Mike Tomlin has added nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson and traded former first-round pick Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles, while also witnessing Mason Rudolph sign with the Tennessee Titans.

According to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero’s report on Saturday, citing sources informed of the situation, Wilson is slated to be the starter after Pittsburgh acquired Fields.

With Wilson set to be the Week 1 starter, Fields is poised to learn from the Super Bowl champion quarterback. Wilson’s vast experience will undoubtedly benefit a young signal-caller like Fields as he assumes the No. 2 role in Pittsburgh.

The Steelers will now prepare for a new era of quarterbacks with Wilson and Fields. Meanwhile, the Bears will gear up for their selection in April’s draft, shaping up to be an intriguing 2024 offseason for Chicago.

By Vincent Quezada

Photo Courtesy of The NFL and Justin Fields